Biography
Karen Ruth Bass, born on October 3, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, is an American politician and social activist. She has served as the 43rd Mayor of Los Angeles since December 12, 2022, becoming the first woman and second African American to hold this position. Prior to her mayoral tenure, Bass represented California's 33rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2022. She also served in the California State Assembly from 2004 to 2010, including a historic term as the first African American woman to serve as Speaker from 2008 to 2010.
Education and Political Experience
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Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California
- Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California
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Political Experience:
- California State Assembly :
- Represented the 47th district
- Served as Majority Leader
- Elected as Speaker of the Assembly
- U.S. House of Representatives :
- Represented California's 33rd congressional district
- Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations
- Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations
- Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus
- Mayor of Los Angeles :
- Elected as the first woman and second African American to serve as mayor
Throughout her career, Bass has been a strong advocate for social justice, child welfare reform, and affordable housing. She founded the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth and the National Foster Youth Institute, aiming to improve the child welfare system. As mayor, she has focused on addressing homelessness and revitalizing Los Angeles' economy.
